Interviewer(s): Natalie Garza

Project: University of Houston

Frank Partida was born and raised in Magnolia Park in Houston and is a staple in the Mexican American community. His story is important for the knowledge he has of Magnolia Park history and his activism in various community and political organizations serving the Mexican Americans in Houston. He begins the interview by talking about the preparation for the Magnolia Park centennial anniversary. He then explains what it was like growing up in Magnolia Park with gangs and the activities that children participated in to pass the time. Partida talks about his employment history, principally working as a salesman for different breweries and later as a carpenter. About half of the interview is about Mexican American community organizations, activism, and politics. Partida’s grandfather, Elias Ramirez was involved in starting LULAC in Houston and Sociedad Mutualista Benito Juarez. From his grandfather, Partida learned about getting involved and he talks about his work in political campaigns to promote Mexican American democratic candidates, the importance of the Viva Kennedy campaign, and working on the Poverty Campaign introduced by Lyndon B. Johnson.